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The Texas House has preliminarily approved House Bill 4, which aims to eliminate the STAAR standardized test, citing its negative impact on student and teacher well-being. Rep. Brad Buckley commented that assessment "should be instructionally relevant and actionable," highlighting the need for a more effective evaluation system. The proposed legislation would replace STAAR with shorter assessments throughout the school year, allowing teachers to tailor instruction based on student performance. However, the Senate has a different approach, proposing a longer timeline for implementation. The House's version also seeks to change how student performance is graded, comparing outcomes to national peers rather than a rigid scale. Critics argue that the current system is overly rigorous and does not accurately reflect student capabilities. The bill aims to rebuild trust in the accountability system, with Buckley asserting: "It is time for assessments to inform instruction in a real-time manner."

 

Community Impact Newspaper

Marshall News Messenger

School Leadership’s Guide to Career and Technical Education

Economic impacts are changing the employment landscape. Now more than ever it's critical to prepare students for careers in current and emerging professions through Career and Technical Education (CTE). Having developed 200+ award-winning digital courses, FlexPoint knows that CTE offerings look different for every school, based on location and student population. School and district leaders can learn how to enhance their CTE programs through the free FlexPoint guide.

In the guide, you’ll have access to:

• An overview of nationally recognized Career Clusters and Programs of Study
• Tips for selecting the best career pathways that evolve with the employment landscape
• Sample survey questions to gauge students’ interests in future career opportunities
• And more!

Download CTE Guide

 

In recent months, K-12 educators have faced increasing pressure regarding Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives. A notable incident occurred at Herriman High School in Utah, where a poster for Inclusion Week sparked backlash from a former state school board member, who criticized it as a defiance against anti-DEI sentiments. Principal Todd Quarnberg expressed frustration, commenting: “When did diversity and inclusion—when did these become nasty words?” The U.S. Department of Education has issued directives to eliminate what it deems “illegal DEI practices,” but has not clearly defined these terms, leading to confusion among educators. A survey revealed that about 5% of educators reported a complete halt in DEI programs since the Trump administration began, with larger districts more likely to report a decrease. As investigations into DEI practices unfold, concerns grow about the impact on educational equity efforts.

 

Education Week News

Friendswood ISD has implemented a new policy prohibiting cellphone use on campus, requiring students to use YONDR pouches to secure their devices. Starting next school year, students in grades six through twelve must either leave their phones at home or store them in magnetic lockable pouches during school hours. The policy, approved by a 5-2 vote, aims to enhance instructional time, as noted by board trustee Rebecca Hillenburg: "It comes down to what's best for instruction and teachers.”" The initial cost for the pouches is over $115,000, with annual refresh costs of $15,000-$18,000. While some trustees support the policy, others, like Niki Rhodes, expressed concerns over the lack of data justifying the investment. Superintendent Thad Roher stated that the district will prepare for the new policy over the summer.

 

Community Impact Newspaper

In Texas, school leaders are increasingly concerned about the delay in passing a significant education funding bill. The House approved a $7.7bn proposal to increase per-student funding for the first time since 2019, but the Senate has yet to act. "The uncertainty of not knowing if we are going to receive any additional funding, that looms pretty heavy," said Tabitha Branum, Superintendent of Richardson ISD. As districts face budget challenges, many have cut programs and staff, with Branum noting that they are being conservative in expanding services due to funding uncertainties. Negotiations continue between the House and Senate on the best approach to funding, with key differences in how to allocate resources for teacher pay and student support. Branum expressed hope for legislative support but acknowledged the need for fiscal prudence. 

 

Dallas News

Corpus Christi ISD is grappling with a potential budget deficit for the 2025-26 school year. The Texas Legislature is deliberating on several funding proposals that could provide additional state funding and teacher pay raises. However, the district is currently planning its budget without knowing the outcome of these proposals. Chief financial officer Roxanne Douglas warned: "We cannot sustain that for much longer," highlighting the urgency of the situation. The district has faced deficits since the 2022-23 school year, with a current deficit of $20m. If state funding remains unchanged, the deficit could rise to approximately $39.4m. Conversely, if House Bill 2 passes, Corpus Christi ISD could see a surplus of about $17.7m, depending on the resolution of a tax dispute. The Texas Legislature's session ends on June 2, and the district plans to finalize its budget in June.

 

Caller-Times

Fort Worth ISD officials are proposing to close and consolidate 18 under-enrolled schools to save approximately $10m over the next five years. The plan aims to redirect funds towards academic priorities, including expanding bilingual programs and hiring demo teachers. While some parents express concern about the impact on education quality, others support the move for better resource allocation. Kellie Spencer, the district's deputy superintendent, emphasized that the savings would allow for improved classroom support. The board is set to vote on this controversial plan on May 20, with community members urging for alternatives to closures, particularly for high-performing schools like De Zavala Elementary. “This is your moment to lead with courage, vision and accountability,” said parent Stephanie Thomas, highlighting the need for inclusive decision-making.

 

Star-Telegram

Judson ISD officials are contemplating significant cost-saving measures, including the potential closure of Judson Middle School and one elementary school, during a meeting on May 15. Closing Judson Middle School could save the district $1.7m, primarily by reducing office staff payroll. However, this decision may lead to increased transportation expenses and overcrowding in other middle schools, as noted by Amanda Martinez, director of business and finance. Superintendent Milton "Rob" Fields highlighted the challenges of redrawing campus lines if closures occur. Trustee Debra Eaton pointed out the value of timely communication, noting: "If that's what we need to do to sustain the district, then we need to work on it as early as possible." Additionally, the board is considering increasing teacher-student ratios, which could save approximately $2.65m by cutting 25 teaching and auxiliary positions.

 

Community Impact Newspaper

Prosper ISD received the H-E-B Excellence in Education Award for large schools in May, securing a $100,000 grant. Superintendent Holly Ferguson expressed: "We are absolutely thrilled that Prosper ISD was honored by H-E-B for the extraordinary commitment to excellence from our students, teachers, staff, families and community." This award underscores the collaborative efforts that have fostered an exceptional educational environment at Prosper ISD.

 

Allen American

The San Antonio ISD board has officially censured Trustee Stephanie Torres, prohibiting her from entering school grounds for 90 days starting May 30. Board President Christina Martinez said that the censure acknowledges that Torres "acted in a manner inconsistent with the board's agreed-upon norms and expectations," but she didn't explain the reasons why. During this period, Torres is required to attend governance training and engage in constructive conversations with affected personnel. Martinez emphasized that the board's approach is focused on restoration rather than punishment, aiming to support Torres in understanding her actions and preventing future violations. Torres, who represents District 5, has been involved in community advocacy for public schools.

 

Star-Telegram

A recent survey by Highland Electric Fleets reveals a strong connection between electric school buses and improved mental health for students, especially those with special needs. The April 2025 Echelon Insights Verified Voter Omnibus survey found that 67% of U.S. parents believe reducing stressors like diesel fumes can enhance their child's emotional and academic success. Notably, 70% of voters consider a calmer ride essential for mental health, with 81% of parents agreeing. Duncan McIntyre, founder and chief executive of Highland Electric Fleets, stated, "It's encouraging to see so many parents recognizing the benefits electric school buses bring to students." The survey highlights a growing awareness of how school transportation impacts student well-being, with many voters favoring electric buses over diesel for their quieter, smoother rides.

 

School Bus Fleet

Civics education is increasingly contentious, with President Donald Trump advocating for "patriotic" education to counter perceived "radical indoctrination." Recent debates in Texas and Oklahoma over including Bible stories in social studies highlight the tensions. Despite these challenges, there is a push for enhanced civics instruction, with 44 states introducing related measures this legislative session, according to CivxNow. Wisconsin state Rep Amanda Nedweski said: “The more people are educated, the less frustrated they are with government.” However, the ideological divide complicates the implementation of civics education, raising questions about whether increased mandates can truly bridge partisan gaps. As Scott Warren from the SNF Agora Institute noted: “People, especially young people, don’t trust institutions.” The ongoing debate over knowledge versus skills in civics education further complicates the landscape, with bipartisan efforts emerging in some states.

 

Education Week News

Introducing students to STEM early can significantly impact their academic success and career paths. Kristen Vesely, director of advanced academics in Ector County, Texas, emphasized: “STEM is everywhere,” highlighting the importance of integrating STEM concepts into everyday learning. Despite disparities in access to robust STEM programs, teachers can still foster interest through discussions on current technologies like artificial intelligence and hands-on experiences. For instance, field trips can serve as practical lessons in STEM, as noted by Robin Johnson Ford, who shared how a visit to the post office illustrated logistics and technology. These small efforts can ignite a passion for STEM, potentially altering students' educational trajectories and self-belief, as seen in the success stories of students who found their calling through exposure to STEM-related activities.

 

Education Week News

Lewisville ISD Board of Trustees appointed four new principals during the May 12 meeting, effective before the 2025-26 school year. The appointees are April Kenely for Donald Elementary School STEM Academy, Leslye Mitchell for Forest Vista Elementary School, Jennifer Barentine for Morningside Elementary School, and Kristen Tufnell for McKamy Middle School. Kenely expressed her excitement: "I am honored to join the Donald Elementary community and excited to continue the school's legacy of innovation and excellence in STEM education." The changes come as the district faces financial challenges, leading to the closure of several elementary schools, which will save approximately $2.3m. The new principals bring extensive experience from various roles within the district.

 

Community Impact Newspaper

Temple ISD is set to welcome two new principals for the 2025-26 school year. Jenny Schoel has been appointed as the principal of Raye-Allen Elementary, while Michelle Rhodes will lead Lamar Middle School. Both educators expressed their excitement about their new roles, with Schoel stating, “It's a pleasure to be here... Every one of them said what a family Temple ISD is.” Schoel, who previously served as an assistant principal, holds degrees from Texas A&M University. Rhodes, a Temple High School alumna with 26 years of service in various roles within Temple ISD, expressed gratitude to the school board for her new opportunity. Superintendent Bobby Ott praised both new principals for their dedication and commitment to the district.

 

Temple Daily Telegram

Sama Ebrahimi Bajgani and her fiancé, Alireza Doroudi, faced a life-altering event when immigration officers arrested Doroudi at their home in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. Bajgani expressed, “I was living a normal life until that night. After that nothing is just normal.” The couple, both doctoral students, are part of a larger group of international students affected by President Donald Trump's immigration policies, with over 1,000 students having their visas revoked since late March. Doroudi, who entered the U.S. legally, is currently detained in Louisiana awaiting a deportation hearing. His lawyer, David Rozas, stated he was “flabbergasted” by the lack of evidence against Doroudi, who has no criminal record. The situation has instilled fear within the Iranian student community, with many feeling they must “lay low” to avoid drawing attention.

 

Los Angeles Times

Violence against educators in schools across Ontario is now so frequent that it has reached crisis levels, according to a new report by researchers at the University of Ontario. The report, titled Running on Fumes: Violence, Austerity, and Institutional Neglect in Ontario Schools, is based on a survey of 6,000 Ontario education sector workers regarding their experiences of workplace violence in the 2022-23 school year. Researchers found that 67% of respondents had experienced at least one act of student-initiated force, and 30% had experienced more than 20 different acts of force during the school year. As well, 63% of respondents reported a threat of physical force from a student, with 23 % reporting being threatened by students at least 20 times during the year. Underfunding, overcrowded classrooms, increasing student needs, lack of supports such as school psychologists and dwindling professional health services are all to blame for the increase, researchers say. The problem is compounded by the food insecurity many families are facing and other socio-economic stressors, according to Darby Mallory, a graduate student and co-author of the report. “We’ve found ourselves in this time period where all of these really intense things have happened, they’ve accumulated. And at the same time, we’re seeing a decline in funding and an increase in needs. We’re just now hitting a crisis point,” she said.

 

The Globe and Mail